Barcelona issue statement after Miami match suspension – ‘Regret the missed opportunity’ | OneFootball

After Barcelona’s dominant 6-1 win over Olympiacos, attention shifted to the news that La Liga has officially cancelled the planned match between Barcelona and Villarreal in Miami, which was scheduled for December 20.

The league confirmed that Relevent, the company organising the event, decided to step back due to the recent uncertainties affecting Spanish football.

The decision brought an end to a highly debated project. While both Barcelona and Villarreal supported the match taking place abroad, other clubs expressed concerns about the fairness and implications of staging domestic league fixtures outside Spain.

The cancellation ensured that the fixture will remain part of the traditional domestic calendar, meaning that it will be played at Estadio de la Ceramica and not in Miami.

Barcelona’s reaction to the cancellation

Shortly after the announcement, Barcelona released an official statement reflecting on the decision.

“FC Barcelona respects and accepts the decision to cancel the game against Villarreal in Miami corresponding to week 17 of La Liga, in the same way that the Club accepted and respected the decision taken in the past to play the game in the US.

“FC Barcelona regret the missed opportunity to expand the competition’s image in a strategic market with a great capacity for growth and generation of resources for everyone.

“The Club is grateful for the unconditional support and affection of our fans in the USA and regrets deeply that they are denied the opportunity to see an official game in their country,” the statement read.

The cancellation marks a significant moment in discussions about La Liga’s attempts to globalise its brand.

For Barcelona, the focus remains on their sporting ambitions, both in domestic and European competitions.

While the Miami match would have offered a chance to reach fans overseas, the club emphasised its respect for the decision and appreciation for supporters abroad.